Is it really safe to get 360 Lipo with a tummy tuck?

Question

I thought you can't have lipo of the abdomen and a TT at the same time. Is it more risky?

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

Aggressive liposuction can be performed throughout the back and flanks at the same time of a tummy tuck. Liposuction can also be performed to the abdominoplasty flap however there are several different types of tummy tucks, so it depends on the type of tummy tuck and the expertice of the surgeon. devastating complications can result if the tummy tuck flap is "beaten up" by the liposuction. When in doubt it is better to proceed with caution even if it means a secondary session of liposuction is needed later in order to get the best result.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, tummy tuck and liposuction can be done at the same time as long as you are healthy, make sure you consult carefully with a board certified PS.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Lipoabdominoplasty is a described technique used for patients who’s abdominal muscle is pretty tight and will not need much or any muscle repair (flat abdomen) so the undermining will be very limited (small tunnel) so liposuction to the front flap will be safe. Through my practice (15 years passionated for Tummy Tucks)I have ONLY found ONE patient (body builder) who hasn’t need a muscle repair. I want to achieve always a flat abdomen and smaller waist, so I am pretty aggressive with muscle repair so in my hands Lipoabdominoplasty never works. So if you are one of those with great abdominal wall you are candidate. If you are protruding (even a bit) it is better to focus on the muscle repair and NOT on removing the fat. Be encouraged Dr. Cárdenas

Kamran Azad, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Liposuction of the abdomen and flanks is often done in combination with tummy tuck. This will give the patient a more aesthetically pleasing silhouette. I would consult with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures together all the time and has good results. Good luck!Kamran Azad MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Dellis1125,I use a combination of flanks liposuction and tummy tuck all the time in order to achieve the best results. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It is possible to do liposuction of the trunk in conjunction with a tummy tuck. The flap of skin that is tightened for the tummy tuck is not involved in the liposuction, so the blood supply is not effected. Liposuction of the flanks/hips is done routinely with a tummy tuck to help contour the area even more.

Keith Hodge, MD · Answer

That is really an old way of thinking. Studies have shown that it is completely safe to have liposuction of the back, flanks and abdomen in combination with a tummy tuck. Good luck!

Mehmet Surmeli, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hi, 
Using the standard TT procedures the lipo should not be performed to the areas of dissection, otherwise it increases the rate of complications such as abdominal flap necrosis, seroma and wound dehiscence. Liposuction can only be performed to the flanks and lower back (areas other than TT surgical site).
But there are a group of TT procedures in which a very limited flap dissection is performed (Saldanha lipoabdominoplasty method and its modifications) thereby liposuction can be combined with TT, and it is shown to be safe with good results.
Therefore the combination of TT with liposuction strictly depends on the technique of the TT surgery. With the standard abdominoplasty techniques there is a high risk of problems.
My comments solely depends on general principles and may subject to change depending on the specific conditions of the patients. I highly recommend face-to-face clinical consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Best wishes,

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is common to have liposuction at the time of a tummy tuck but there are some limits.  The upper abdomen is generally not suctioned at the time of an abdominoplasty due to healing concerns.  However the area around the hips, flanks, and back are not a concern.  Speak with your surgeon to learn more.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
Yes, it is safe, as long as you have a good health. In general, you need to be physically healthy and at a stable weight, have realistic expectations, be a non-smoker and your BMI needs to be 30 or less.
l recommend you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon to talk about your goals and anything you need to know.
Good luck :)